The provision of Botox and dermal fillers is not covered at all by the Care Quality Commission (the CQC’s “new powers to rate cosmetic surgery clinics” apply to surgical procedures only). The products used – particularly dermal fillers – are equally unchecked by the law: anyone can make and market dermal fillers; and anyone can inject them, wherever they choose – in hotel rooms, living rooms or garages. (Regulation of these products as “medical devices” is being developed by the EU but will not be implemented until after Brexit.) The lack of regulation around invasive non-surgical cosmetic procedures is an issue that will not go away, and their use is still growing. Linda TheobaldLondon• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters

Source: The Guardian February 21, 2018 16:41 UTC